ESSEX Freemasons have reaffirmed their commitment to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT), contributing a further £11,000 towards its lifesaving work and pledging continued support that will bring their total donations to £50,000 over five years.

The latest contribution was presented during a gathering of Essex Provincial Grand Stewards' Lodge, where members welcomed Dr Gareth Grier from EHAAT for an informative presentation about the charity's emergency medical services and the work of its critical care teams.

The donation comprised a £10,000 grant from the Essex Freemasons Provincial Community Fund, supplemented by £1,000 raised through a charity raffle.

Provincial Grand Charity Steward Chris Hicks also confirmed a further £10,000 pledge for 2027. This will bring the Province's cumulative donations to EHAAT to £50,000 over five years, comprising £40,000 donated up to and including 2026 and the additional £10,000 committed for next year. These figures exclude contributions made independently by individual Lodges, and other Masonic Orders across Essex.

Alongside financial contributions, Essex Freemasons are developing closer ties with EHAAT through practical involvement in the charity's activities.

In August, senior representatives of Essex Freemasons visited EHAAT's airbase to learn more about its operations and explore opportunities for collaboration. The visit brought together Deputy Provincial Grand Master Peter Hollingsworth, Assistant Provincial Grand Master Elliott Chevin, Provincial Grand Charity Steward Chris Hicks and Provincial Community Engagement Lead David Barton.

Following the visit, opportunities have been explored for Freemasons across Essex to become more actively involved in supporting the charity.

One of the first examples will take place on Friday, 18 December 2026, when the Essex Freemasons Community Engagement Team will support EHAAT's The Flight Before Christmas carol concert at Thaxted Parish Church, providing all the presents for children visiting Santa's Grotto.

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Looking ahead to 2027, Essex Freemasons also plan to support EHAAT at community and fundraising events, providing volunteers and helping to raise awareness of the charity's work.

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance provides an essential emergency medical service across Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas, delivering advanced critical care directly to patients experiencing life-threatening illness or injury.

As a charity dependent on public generosity, sustained support from organisations and community groups helps EHAAT continue delivering its lifesaving services.